Not so fast with that wrecking ball, folks. A building that has outlived its usefulness doesn't have to face demolition-a process that destroys every bit of the structure, even those components that still have value. By deconstructing, or gradually dismantling instead, it's possible to salvage those valuable materials for reuse-thus eliminating waste and lightening the burden on new resources. With deconstruction, many components can be reused: floorboards, framing lumber, stone and brick, and finish material such as moldings and doors are among them. Many materials that can't be reused can be salvaged for recycling; an old cement foundation, for instance, can be recycled into aggregate.

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